Biologic Drug
A complex medication derived from living cells — including monoclonal antibodies, vaccines, and cell therapies — that treats serious conditions like cancer and autoimmune diseases.
How It Works
Biologics are fundamentally different from traditional small-molecule drugs. They're produced inside living organisms (bacteria, yeast, mammalian cells) and consist of large, complex proteins that cannot be exactly replicated. This complexity is why biologics are expensive: manufacturing requires specialized facilities, cold-chain storage, and extensive quality control. Biologics include blockbuster drugs like Humira (adalimumab), Keytruda (pembrolizumab), and Stelara (ustekinumab). Because they can't be exactly copied, the generic equivalent of a biologic is called a "biosimilar" rather than a generic, and the approval pathway requires more extensive testing.
Related Terms
- Biosimilar — A biologic product that is "highly similar" to an already approved reference biologic, with no clinically meaningful differences in safety, purity, or potency.
- Specialty Drug — A high-cost medication — typically above $1,000 per month — that treats complex or chronic conditions and often requires special handling, storage, or administration.
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About This Definition
This definition is part of the DrugPrice Drug Pricing Glossary — 34 terms explaining how prescription drug pricing works in the United States. All definitions are written in plain language for patients, caregivers, journalists, and healthcare professionals.